A mysterious boat-shaped formation in the mountains of eastern Turkey is once again drawing attention as researchers begin drilling into the site believed by some to be connected to Noah’s Ark. The Durupinar formation, located near Mount Ararat, was first identified in 1959 and has since become the subject of ongoing investigation.

Researchers from the Noah’s Ark Scans project say ground-penetrating radar and soil studies have revealed possible underground corridors within the formation. Some researchers claim the measurements resemble the dimensions of the Ark described in ancient biblical texts. The team now plans to drill narrow cores and eventually send an underground robot called Gopher into spaces that are difficult for humans to reach.

Project representatives have described the latest work as potentially historic, while also making dramatic claims about what the findings could mean. The expedition includes archaeologists and geologists, including project director Dr. Cenker Atila of Sivas Cumhuriyet University. However, the claim that the site has been “100% confirmed” as Noah’s Ark remains disputed and has not been established by mainstream archaeology.

The formation has long divided researchers. Earlier investigations found no archaeological evidence, and modern geologists generally consider Durupinar a natural geological formation shaped by erosion. Supporters point to its unusual shape, radar results and soil samples collected in 2024. Those 88 samples reportedly showed higher organic matter and potassium levels inside the formation, findings the research team says deserve further investigation. 🔎